The Logical Framework Approach
Background, concepts, tools and practice
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
What is the Logical Framework Approach (LFA)? Key steps in the LFA The logframe The Logic in the LFA Strengths and weaknesses of the LFA
The link between LFA and RBME
Using the logical framework matrix
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
It is an analytical, presentational and management tool which can help planners and managers to: Analyze the existing situation during project preparation; Establish a logical hierarchy of means by which objectives will be reached; Identify some of the potential risks; Establish how outputs and outcomes might best be monitored and evaluated; and Present a summary of the project in a standard format. It is an instrument for logical analysis and structured thinking in project planning.
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
It is a framework, a battery of questions which, if they are used in a uniform way, provide a structure for the dialogue between different stakeholders in a project. It is a planning instrument, which encompasses the different elements in a process of change (problems, objectives, stakeholders, plan for implementation. It is an instrument to create participation, accountability and ownership.
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
Establish the general scope and focus of the project. Agree on the specific planning framework, terminology and design process. Undertake a detailed situation analysis. Develop the project strategy, objectives hierarchy, implementation arrangements and resources. Identify and analyze the assumptions and risks for the chosen strategies and modify the project design if assumptions are incorrect or risks are too high. Develop the monitoring and evaluation framework.
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
It is the product of the LFA process A 4 x 4 matrix Narrative Summary
Objectively Verifiable Indicators (OVI)
Means of Verification (MOV)
Important Assumptions
GOAL
(Measurement of goal achievement)
(Sources of information; Methods used)
(Assumptions affecting PurposeGoal linkage)
PURPOSE
(End of project status)
(Sources of information; Methods used)
(Assumptions affecting OutputPurpose linkage)
OUTPUTS
(Magnitude of outputs; Planned completion date)
(Sources of information; Methods used)
(Assumptions affecting InputsOutputs linkage)
ACTIVITIES
Inputs (Nature and level of
(Sources of information; Methods used)
(Initial assumptions about the project)
resources necessary’ cost’ Planned starting date)
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
Defines a hierarchy of aims, thereby developing a common understanding of programme/project expectations; Defines indicators of success and establishes criteria for monitoring and evaluation;
Defines critical assumptions on which the programme is based; and
Identifies the means of verifying programme accomplishments.
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
Goal
The hierarchy of aims is shown in this diagram, with the goal to be achieved referring to the condition of well-being of the target group: individuals, families, or communities.
Purpose
The purpose is determined by asking the question “how will this goal be achieved?”
Outputs
The outputs are the deliverables through which the purpose will be achieved.
Activities
Activities are the main elements of component projects which produce the outputs.
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
Goal
Purpose
Outputs Under full control of project management Activities
Inputs
Beyond control of project management
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
Otherwise labeled the Development Objective, this refers to the higher level objective that the project is expected to contribute to Wide in breadth and scope so that its achievement is expected to be done by more than one programme or project
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
Otherwise labeled the Immediate Objective The result that is achieved as a consequence of the project delivering the planned outputs May be expressed as a ‘change in behavior’ of a group or institution, with the project outputs causing or facilitating that change
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
The tangible results or deliverables that the project management team should be able to guarantee delivering
Specifies the group or institution that will benefit from the outputs
Indicates timetable
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
Specific activities needed to produce the outputs
Time frames may be specified
As many sets of activities will have to be identified as there are outputs. Activities will have corresponding inputs, which are the resources that the project or programme utilizes so the outputs will be produced.
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
Unlike the vertical logic, does not completely show causal relationship A row in the matrix presents (from left to right) ¾ The result or objective ¾ How the achievement will be measured or verified ¾ From where and how this information will be obtained ¾ The external factors that could prevent the project from achieving the next level objective.
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
Quantitative, qualitative and time-bound measures that provide evidence of the extent to which the aims have been met at the four levels of the hierarchy
May be direct or indirect
Help refine and clarify aims
Indicate how to recognize success at each level
Facilitate monitoring and give the signal to take remedial actions if needed Facilitate end of programme evaluation
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
Must be valid, reliable, precise, cost-effective and stated independently between levels Should provide a clear statement of how the project target group will benefit from the realization of outputs. Should be specific in terms of Quality – what? Quantity – how much? Time – when? how long? Target Group – who? Place – where?
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
Measure what is important to the project Measure changes that are caused by the project (be attributable to the project)
Be cost-effective in the collection and analysis of data
Be independent and not inherent to the project
Be verifiable to reach agreement.
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
The specific sources from which the status of each of the indicators can be ascertained The precise method by which the verification is done or the measurement conducted
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
Are external factors—preconditions or important events, conditions or decisions outside the control of the project management which… Must prevail on the goal Are necessary for the achievement of its purpose Are necessary for the production of outputs Are necessary for the start of the project. The achievement of aims depends on whether the assumption holds true and the risks do not materialize.
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
The following table may be used as a guide in assessing external factors. You may improve on this and develop your own.
Question
Answe r
Action
Is the external factor important?
Yes
Include in logframe
No
Do not include in logframe
Will this factor be realized as a result of another activity outside the project being developed?
Almost certainly
Do not include in logframe
Likely
Include in logframe as assumption
Yes
Redesign the project so the factor becomes an acceptable assumption (add/revise objectives, activities, etc.)
No
The assumption is a killer assumption and the project is not feasible.
If the external factor is unlikely to be realized by another activity, is it possible to design the current project so that it can influence the external factor?
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
Hierarchy of hypotheses then
Goal
Assumptions
if then
if
Purpose Outputs Activities
then
if
Assumptions Assumptions
Assumptions
If these Activities are implemented and the Assumptions hold, then these Outputs will be delivered. If these outputs are delivered, and these Assumptions hold, then this Purpose will be achieved. If this Purpose is achieved, and these Assumptions hold, then this Goal will be achieved.
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
Start by identifying the results you would like to achieve: The impact in or goal for a particular development situation The lower level results you need to achieve in order to cause that impact The activities and resources that are required.
Adapted from Pradhan, The Logical Framework Approach.
2. Clarify each level of the results hierarchy by thinking upwards: What specific problem will this address (problem statement)? What external factors need to be considered at each level of objectives to ensure successful implementation?
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
Level of detail – should be enough to guide project implementation Matrix structure – 4x4, and is therefore limiting, especially for large projects; different matrices can be prepared for each purpose Process or product-driven – the trend towards process-driven interventions is increasing, with capacity development recognized as needed for people and institutions to guide their own development process
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
The sideways logic – it is important to remember that outputs from one part of the project will often be necessary inputs or conditions for another part Where to locate outputs and activities – place under a specific output all activities necessary to achieve it, or split up an activity and be more specific if it relates to several outputs Performance questions and target indicators – both may be found in the second column; performance questions are important at the purpose and goal level where quantitative indicators may be difficult
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
7.
Aggregation of outputs – achieved by a project at the purpose level; purpose-level indicators may therefore be a compilation of the separate indicators for each output (aggregate indicators may not be possible)
8.
Indicative targets – indicative outputs, activities and indicators may be written in the first draft of the matrix; project design is a continuing process
9.
Monitoring mechanisms – may be the same for different purposes and outputs, e.g., survey
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
10. Assumptions and risks –should also be about the internal logic of the project strategy, in addition to external conditions; project design may be adjusted to lower risks 11. Gender and other equity differences – such cross-cutting issues may have to be addressed in both project design and M&E; where they are critical, it may be desirable to have cross-cutting objectives and indicators
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
A tool for planning a logical set of interventions;
A tool for appraising a programme document;
A concise summary of the programme;
A tool for monitoring progress made with regard to delivery of outputs and activities; and A tool for evaluating impact of programme outputs, or progress in achieving purpose and goal. A tool for participation, ownership, and accountability.
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
During initial stages can be used to test project ideas and concepts for relevance and usefulness. Designing logframes help to make comprehensive plans that are feasible within acceptable levels of risks. Logframes can form the basis of ‘contracts’ with explicit statements of what will be delivered. During implementation the logframe serves as the main reference for drawing up detailed work plans, terms of reference, budgets, etc. The logframe provides indicators against which the project progress and achievements can be assessed.
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
There may be a tendency to focus too much on problems rather than on opportunities and vision. The logframe may be used too rigidly, leading people into a ‘blueprint’ approach to project design. Limited attention to problems of uncertainty is provided, where a learning or adaptive approach to project design and management is required. There may be a tendency for poorly-thought-through sets of activities and objectives to be entered into a matrix, giving the appearance of a logical framework when in fact the key elements of the analytical process have been skipped.
Module 3. The Logical Framework Approach and RBME On-line Training Course on Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation for MDG Implementation
